Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Jeremy Bloyd-Peshkin on January 16, 2017 at 9:58am

Hey Kevin,

I'll be doing Barry in the single-speed group as well. I've never done this event before, but I have done a lot of riding in that general area of Michigan. It's rolling with the occasional punchy climb, but it's decidedly still the midwest. Here's last year's elevation plot:

So basically, gear to be comfortable (if ever so slightly spinny) on the flats and you'll be fine. I'm looking at the neighborhood of ~70 gear-inches, personally. But that's just my spin on things. :D

Also, it's really worth noting that gear choice for single-speed isn't as crucial as it seems. Once you're off riding, you have three options for every situation - sit, stand, or walk. We ride single-speed in events like this because we're stubborn. Pick a gear and have fun! And remember: no gears, no problems.

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Permalink Reply by Kevin D. on January 16, 2017 at 10:20am

Ha...had to refresh my memory on the gear ratio calculation ;)

It sounds like I'll be fine where I'm at, even though I may play around a bit with my setup...very helpful to know that the course doesn't "demand" a ratio or range...

Thanks for the elevation info too, also helpful.

Cheers.

 

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Permalink Reply by Steven Cox on January 16, 2017 at 11:31am

I'll take a stab at this. I've ridden the B-R course many times on a fixed gear bike, and my gearing depends on the road/trail conditions and my level of fitness. Most of the time, however, my gear is somewhere around 70" (give or take about 5"). For me, picking the right gear is making a trade-off: the hardest hills should be a struggle to climb, but I don't want to be dead after spinning like a madman on the long asphalt downhill. If you are using a freewheel, then the downhill spinning may be less of a concern, especially if you are good at drafting and can get safely tucked behind someone. I recommend that you get on the course a few times before B-R and find out what works best for you. Scout the hardest hills and the twin track, and try various gears. Pay attention to the weather forecast for race day because you might need a different gear from what you used on your scouting rides.  

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Permalink Reply by JohnB on January 24, 2017 at 12:03pm

I agree with the others, I think you'll be fine with your choice.   I've been using 67GI (46/18) for my 44 mile commute in Lake County IL.   For the rolling terrain it's a perfect balance speed on the flats, and being able to pull up hills.      Good luck, provide a report with pictures.

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Permalink Reply by Kevin D. on January 25, 2017 at 7:33am

Cool, thanks for the feedback..

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